13th Feb 2009 - 00:00
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Abstract
A total of 500 small producers that have been hand-picked by the Real Food selection committee will be flocking through the doors at Earls Court 1, London, in May, to showcase their produce at the Real Food Festival.
The one day event will also give visitors the chance to sample a range of dishes produced ethically, sustainably and fairly, as well as an opportunity to join the expert panels as they debate the real food issues that will have the impact on the sustainability and profitability of many businesses. Philip Lowery, festival director of the Real Food Festival commented: "We directly subsidise producers to be at the show because we believe that they should have an equal opportunity to find both individual customers and commercial buyers alike, regardless of the size of their business. "It's one of the reasons why we have to charge an entry fee for our trade buyers. But, by buying a ticket these buyers and their organisations are directly supporting the individual producers with the very special products that we know our trade visitors are looking for." At last year's event the trade day was packed with key buyers from every sector of the food industry including Compass, Tate Catering, Four Seasons Hotel, Starbucks Coffee Co, The Fat Duck, British Airways, The River Café, Connaught Hotel, Fifteen London, The Dorchester and BB's Coffee & Muffins. David Anthony from Carluccio's commented on the last year's show: "…this is simply the best festival in the calendar. Visually, last year looked great and there was a very informal, friendly and approachable attitude from all the producers. I was so impressed…looking forward to this year."